5 Tips for Success in Your Criminal Court Hearing

 Posted on March 19, 2019 in Felonies & Misdemeanors

Appearing in court can feel like you are back in high school, everyone looking at you, scrutinizing your every move and word, and judging your appearance and behavior. Unlike in high school, where a misstep might make you a temporary laughingstock, one wrong move in the courtroom can leave you with a potentially devastating outcome. 

When you are in court, the judge, the opposing attorney or prosecutor, and the jury are all judging your appearance and examining your behavior to determine your credibility. Here are a few tips to help you be at your best when you have a criminal court hearing:

1. Always Arrive Early

First impressions are everything. Nobody is going to take you seriously if you burst into the courtroom late. Sometimes a judge will not even permit you to attend your trial if you are late and it will have to be rescheduled. Make sure you leave your residence with plenty of time to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

2. Dress Appropriately

Dressing for success is important, especially when it comes to court. The main rule is you want to look presentable and professional when you attend your court hearing. Men should wear a button-down shirt, slacks or khakis, dress shoes, and a tie, with a sports coat or suit jacket if possible. Women should wear slacks or a skirt (that is no shorter than knee-length) and a nice blouse, a dress, or a suit. Open-toed shoes, hats, and flashy jewelry should not be worn by men or women.

3. Show Respect

When you are in the courtroom, there are certain rules and etiquette you should follow. Never interrupt the judge when he or she is speaking, always refer to the judge as “your honor,” and always make eye contact with the judge when you are speaking to them. You should also remember that cell phones have no place in the courtroom and should be turned completely off.

4. Come Prepared

Judges do not appreciate when you waste their time. You must come to your trial prepared, so bring anything you may need, such as necessary documents or other records. If there are certain facts you must know, know them. Have a notebook and pen just in case.

5. Have an Arlington Heights, IL Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side

A court appearance is made easier when you have skilled legal representation. If you face criminal charges, it is critical to hire a skilled Rolling Meadows, IL criminal defense lawyer to defend you. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law has decades of experience defending clients against various criminal charges, including DUI, violent crimes, sex crimes, and drug crimes. Whatever the criminal charge you face, call us today at 847-253-3400 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.lawhelp.org/files/1814550B-B14C-5F28-66B9-295AF39C97B1/attachments/8ABA4F60-5E8C-4CE6-BE9C-A45505791860/preparing-for-court.pdf

https://www.thebalancesmb.com/how-to-make-a-more-effective-appearance-in-court-398536